Reporters Without Borders says 57 journalists were killed in connection with their work in 2010.

This is 25 percent fewer than last year.

In a report published today, the group noted that killings of journalists have continued unabated over the past decade in a number of countries, including Afghanistan, Columbia, Iraq, Pakistan, and Russia.

According to Reporters Without Borders, Pakistan accounted for 11 of this year's murders.

Kidnappings of journalists are also on the rise.

The media watchdog estimates there were as many as 51 cases this year, against 33 in 2009.

"For the first time, no continent escaped this evil in 2010," the group said.compiled from agency reports